Midway awards

Half the season is over. So, it’s time for my halfway awards. Buckle up…

First, I can’t believe the Buckeyes are sitting here at 6-0 right now. I expected 5-1 with a loss to Michigan State. But, the Spartans have sputtered this season (as has the rest of the B1G). Come to think of it, I should make up an award for disappointing team in the B1G and it would go to the Spartans. They could have had a special season in 2012, but they blew it. The surprise team would be have to be Penn State. Left on the side of the road for dead after the NCAA truck ran them over, they are responding with the determination of The Bride from Kill Bill – without the gore or death, of course.

Offensive MVP: Braxton Miller. Duh. This is the easiest pick of the lot. The Buckeyes go-go juice comes from Miller and while I am sure that Kenny Guiton is a big step up from Joe Bauserman, Miller is a legit Heisman candidate.

Defensive MVP: I am torn here between three players. 1) Ryan Shazier, the team leader in tackles, 2nd in TFL and 2nd in sacks; 2) John Simon, the captain and the team leader in sacks and TFL; 3) Bradley Roby, the unheralded one is 4th in tackles, 2nd in INTs, and leads in passes defensed and had a blocked kick. Given the situation on the field with the linebacking crew, I have to hand it over to Shazier – if he’s out, you can’t just plug in another LB and expect the corps to hold up. If Simon goes down, it would be much less catastrophic.

Offensive surprise player (in a good way): Nick Vannett and Jeff Heuerman. These two TEs have stepped up when called upon in the passing game and delivered. Additionally, they are working in concert with what is probably the best functioning offensive line since 2002 for the Bucekyes.

Defensive surprise player (in a good way): Bradley Roby. I will admit it. I didn’t think much of him when he was brought in (stolen away from a Vanderbilt verbal commitment). But he is turning into the Malcolm Jenkins-type of player that was unheralded in recruiting but turned into a stud on the field. Love it.

Offensive disappointment: Jake Stoneburner. The kid moved back to receiver, ostensibly to get him more catches. And while he has scored three TDs, he only has 7 receptions this season for 15 yards per game.

Defensive disappointment: Orhian Johnson. I am not sure this is a disappointment or not. I was hopeful for more but he’s been burnt to a crisp like an albino at a nude beach all year long.